BLACK AND BLUE

But hooker Kelleher credits programme with helping him process trauma of World Cup loss to All Blacks in Paris

- BY MICHAEL SCULLY

RÓNAN Kelleher discovered it's good to talk - and the sooner, the better - after Ireland's World Cup quarterfinal heartbreak in Paris.

Kelleher was yesterday included on Andy Farrell's Ireland squad for the four-Test November Series, starting with the trip to Chicago on November 1st.

And the hooker can't wait to face the All Blacks again, 12 months after their last clash at the Aviva Stadium and two years on from that World Cup defeat in the French capital.

The 28 year old feels it is this generation's chance to make history as they strive to emulate the historic Soldier Field triumph in 2016.

"Now we're thinking, or hoping, can we make our own bit of history," said the Leinster hooker, speaking ahead of Saturday's Croke Park URC showdown with Munster.

"Everyone in Irish rugby remembers where they were for that first game in Chicago.

"It's a big one for everyone that's hoping to be involved in the game.

"It would be a big, big opportunity and a big occasion for people to step up to.

"It's always a massive game."

Famously, Kelleher was held up over the New Zealand try-line by Jordie Barrett at a crucial moment in that brilliant sudden death clash two years ago.

Had he scored, Ireland would have taken the lead.

Instead, they were out of a tournament they had set their sights on winning.

Kelleher admits it took him more than six months to look for the support he needed.